PlusEquals5
Future Software Engineering
How will software engineering transform by 2031?
As we approach 2026, the software industry stands at a critical juncture. This conference brings together distinguished industry leaders, academics, and innovators to explore the profound changes ahead. Through keynote presentations, themed breakout sessions, and panel discussions, delegates will tackle the defining questions shaping our profession over the next five years.
- How will agentic AI reshape the role of software engineers—from coding to orchestration?
- What socio-technical skills will distinguish exceptional engineers from average ones?
- Can we build resilient, sustainable systems while meeting the demands of exponential growth?
- How should universities prepare students graduating in 2031 for careers we can barely imagine today?
Where
Edinburgh Napier University
Craiglockhart Campus
When
2 April 2026
Call for Participation
We invite speakers and sponsors to join us for the second annual PlusEquals5 conference on 2nd April 2026.
PlusEquals5 is a critical forum where industry leaders, academics, and innovators gather to shape the future by considering how software engineering will change over the next five years. We are seeking keynote speakers, focused presentations for breakout tracks, and interactive discussions and workshops.
Your contribution will directly influence the next generation of talent. Following insights from 2025, Edinburgh Napier University is embedding AI awareness, communication skills, and AI ethics at all levels of our undergraduate programmes.
Full Details
Download the complete call for participation document with detailed information about speaking and sponsorship opportunities.
Download PDFConference Themes for 2026
We welcome proposals on the following themes, or on other topics relevant to the future of software engineering:
Agentic AI & Human-Machine Systems
The focus has moved beyond simple code generation to autonomous Agentic AI that plans, acts, and debugs. The discussion now centres on how engineers must manage and govern these complex, autonomous systems responsibly.
The Socio-Technical Engineer
Addressing the Developer Experience (DevEx) and the need for engineers to master systems design, ethics, and communication making them socio-technical leaders who bridge the gap between code and business value.
Platform Engineering & Resilient Systems
Focus on Platform Engineering: providing self-service, secure, and highly automated internal platforms that accelerate development while embedding security (DevSecOps) and compliance from the start, ensuring systems are truly resilient.
Sustainable Software & Edge Computing
Topics include Sustainable Software Engineering (writing energy-efficient code), measuring compute carbon footprint, and applying software engineering to physical systems via Edge AI, IoT, and Digital Twins.
Sponsorship Opportunities
We offer a range of sponsorship packages designed to provide targeted visibility and engagement opportunities. Each package delivers value through branding prominence, speaking opportunities, exhibition space, and access to networking sessions.
Headline Sponsor
Premium branding, keynote opportunities, and primary visibility
Sponsor
Breakout track branding and thought leadership opportunities
Partner
Logo placement and brand visibility
Social Sponsor
Exclusive branding at closing reception
Exhibition Stands Available
Showcase your products, services, or innovations to a highly engaged audience of software engineering professionals, academics, and industry leaders. Exhibitor stands are strategically located near refreshment areas during breaks, lunch, and the final drinks reception, ensuring maximum visibility and interaction with delegates throughout the day.
Limited space available - early applications encouraged to secure your place at this impactful event.
Get Involved
For enquiries about sponsorship or an exhibition stand, please use the contact form at the bottom of the page.
To propose a conference session, please use the button above.
Event Venue
Edinburgh Napier University's Craiglockhart Campus, set against the scenic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle and the Pentland Hills, provides a serene and stimulating environment. Among its highlights is the Lindsay Stewart Lecture Theatre, a centerpiece that combines cutting-edge technology with striking architectural features. With its spacious seating and modern amenities, the Lindsay Stewart ensures comfort and functionality.
Sustainability is a key focus at Craiglockhart, with the campus committed to eco-friendly practices, ensuring that events have a minimal environmental footprint. The University catering service offers delightful menus using locally-sourced ingredients to satisfy diverse dietary preferences.
With excellent transportation links to central Edinburgh and comprehensive accessibility features, the campus ensures ease of access for all delegates. Ample parking and facilities for attendees with disabilities are also available, underscoring the campus's commitment to inclusivity.
Contact
Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you would like to know more about the event.
Address
219 Colinton Rd, Edinburgh EH14 1DJ
Call Us
+44 (0)131 455 2373
Email Us
plusequals5@napier.ac.uk